Thug Life Row: Kamal Haasan Confirms Film Won’t Release In Karnataka; Refuses To Apologise Over Kannada Remark

Thug Life Karnataka Release Update: Kamal Haasan, who is gearing up the release of Thug Life, is all over the headlines these days owing to the recent controversy. For the uninitiated, Kamal Haasan had sparked a debate at an event when he made a remark stating, "Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil". His comments didn't go down well with Karnataka BJP chief V Yediyurappa who accused him of insulting Kannada. On the other hand, several pro-Kannada groups came together to condemn Kamal Haasan's remark and even sought an apology.

While a complaint was filed against Kamal Haasan, the matter took a legal turn after Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has filed a petition seeking a ban on Thug Life release in the state. As the matter is being heard in the Karnataka High Court, the court asked the actor to apologise. "You are not an ordinary man. The spoken word can't be taken back but there can be an apology. You have a right to speech... but not to hurt sentiments," the Karnataka High Court insisted

However, Kamal Haasan held his ground in the court and refused to apologise. The actor's lawyer stated, "Kamal Haasan has the utmost respect for Kannada and nothing more needs to be said. We don't need security as of now as we are not going to be released, we will hold talks with the film chamber". The news did come as a major development in the case. While the court replied, "This is your ego speaking", the matter will be heard again on June 10.

For the uninitiated, KFCC President, M Narasimhulu has said in a statement, "Kamal Haasan insists 'I haven't done anything wrong, so won't apologise'. But if he does not, there is no question of allowing the film's release." To note, Kamal Haasan's Thug Life is set to release across the world, now except Karnataka, on June 5.